Photo of T. kok-seghyz transplants when first planted and after 10 weeks when flowers began opening in all planting densities. (photo courtesy of the author)
Wooster, OH - A recent study by scientists at Ohio State University's Ohio Agricultural Research Center has identified the optimal planting density for Taraxacum kok-saghyz, a dandelion species cultivated for its natural rubber and latex production. The findings provide valuable guidance for improving yield efficiency in commercial and experimental cultivation.
Taraxacum kok-saghyz, commonly known as the rubber dandelion, is a promising alternative source of natural rubber. The rubber dandelion produces similar quality natural rubber (NR) to Hevea but can be grown in temperate regions and could supplement the global supply chain, providing NR security to countries relying on imports.
This study explores how planting density affects root development, seed production, and rubber yield, focusing on a newly bred population selected for larger root size. Results indicate that carefully managed spacing can significantly impact overall productivity, balancing plant competition with resource availability to maximize latex and rubber output.
By determining the most effective planting density, this study offers practical recommendations for farmers and industry stakeholders looking to optimize land use while increasing the viability of T. kok-saghyz as a sustainable rubber source. These insights contribute to advancing alternative rubber production, reducing reliance on traditional rubber tree plantations, and supporting future supply chain resilience.
According to Dr. Cornish, "The research on rubber dandelion optimal planting density is part of a much larger program aimed at the biological and geographical diversification of the global natural rubber supply, and especially to secure the U.S. rubber supply. Natural rubber is a critical agricultural material, used in 50,000 different products. Remarkably, only a single tropical tree is used to supply the world's natural rubber needs of nearly 15 million tons/year. The rubber tree is cultivated as clones making it extremely prone to disease. Even non-clonal tree species have collapsed in recent decades. Rubber dandelion and guayule, a desert bush, are the leading alternative species being developed as alternative rubber crops. However, much has to be accomplished before these new industrial crops can become fully established in the U.S. farmscape."
Katrina Cornish is the Director of the U.S, Arid Land Research Center in Maricopa, Arizona, and a professor at Ohio State University. She is a global expert on alternate rubber and latex production, processing and products with more than 30 years working with rubber biosynthesis and alternative feedstocks in the Government, Commercial and University sectors.
The full story can be found on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18374-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
